Metra operating fewer trains starting next week

Metra commuters traveling next week will have fewer trains to choose from as the railway scales back service in response to a COVID-19-related drop in passengers.

Metra officials announced they would switch to an alternate schedule effective Monday that provides about half the trains normally offered. It will still provide “adequate service for those who still need to travel,” officials said.

Metra will try to keep the regular number of cars on trains to allow for social distancing — people staying 6 feet apart.